An OEM license is intended for system builders and manufacturers (like Dell, HP, or local PC shops). When you buy this license, you are technically acting as the "system builder."

: Download the official Windows Media Creation Tool from Microsoft to create a bootable USB drive.

Buying a is a cost-effective way to activate Windows, but it comes with specific technical and legal trade-offs compared to standard Retail licenses. What is a Windows OEM License?

: Once activated, your system will state "Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account." Is it Legal?

For personal use, buying and using an OEM key is generally considered "grey area" but not illegal for the end-user. Microsoft's EULA (End User License Agreement) technically states OEM keys should be sold with a fully assembled computer system, but they rarely, if ever, penalize individual home users for using them on custom builds.